Can you recount what happened on the day of the attack?
In the weeks prior, we had heard rumors of plans for an attack, but security agencies did not act. On Saturday, the day before the attack, my husband warned me not to travel at night, sensing danger. I was in Ogun State shopping for my business and remained there until morning. My husband, also a hunter, was off duty and unarmed on Sunday. That morning, near Oke-Ode, I received a call that bandits had struck. I rushed there and found my husband, a prince of Agunjin, along with his younger brother and brother-in-law, had been killed.
What more can you tell us about the attack and the victims?
The bandits attempted to kidnap my sister-in-law’s husband, but failed. They inquired about my mother-in-law, who had just returned from Hajj; she was spared but had her belongings stolen and has since gone to Lagos to recover. Many others were kidnapped or killed: Taiye from Dabu village, his wife, and their two-month-old baby; Dr. Baba Gold, his wife, and children; a Bororo man and a Hausa trader in Alade; Oluode Ologomo, who was killed despite bullets not penetrating him because he was believed to be protected by charms. In total, 22 people lost their lives, and many others were taken hostage.
In a viral video, you accused security agencies of stripping vigilantes of weapons. What exactly happened?
Yes. The day before the attack, a supervising officer reportedly came from Abuja and collected vigilantes’ guns for repairs. This left the community’s only defense unarmed, enabling the bandits’ attack.
You mentioned helicopters and external fighters’ involvement in the security challenges faced by the community. Can you clarify this claim?
Around May, a young man escaped from the forest and warned us that bandits had been brought from Katsina by helicopter and supplied with ammunition. Helicopters have been seen flying over the forests at night, indicating external aid and supply to the attackers.
Do you suspect the bandits knew your family members before the attack?
Yes, they specifically asked about my mother-in-law and targeted us deliberately. I overheard people saying they were coming for me because of my reputation as a hunter and my confidence that Oke-Ode could not be attacked.
Based on what you were told, did the bandits break into your house before attacking some family members, including your husband?
No, they did not break into any house. They went straight to the security post where the hunters were stationed and killed my husband, his brother, and brother-in-law.
When did the community begin to experience such deadly attacks?
This was the first attack on Oke-Ode. Historically, it has been a safe area since insecurity began around March this year, though kidnappings and raids for farm produce and killings have been ongoing in the broader area.
Apart from vigilantes and hunters, are there any other security arrangements to protect Oke-Ode from attacks?
Policemen are stationed in the town, but no additional permanent security is present. Soldiers were deployed after a previous attack but were relocated weeks ago, leaving the community vulnerable.
What are the community leaders, including the Baale, saying about the incident?
Oke-Ode currently has no king due to a dispute since the previous king’s death three years ago. The community development association has raised concerns about rising insecurity, but no definitive resolution has been reached.
Have the police been informed about the attacks, and what did they say?
Yes, the police are aware. The bodies were taken to the police station nearby. However, the police are afraid, as bandits threatened to attack the station, which hampers their response.
Most residents appear to have deserted the area. Why?
People are terrified because the bandits vowed to return. The police cannot match their firepower or numbers, and many residents have fled for safety, despite having nowhere else to go.
Has any government official visited the community since the attack?
The Local Government Chairman, Mr. Femi Yusuf, visited me afterward. The governor reportedly visited Oke-Ode on Thursday. We hope these visits lead to effective action, including wiping out the bandits.
What about those injured in the attack? Who is taking care of them?
The injured were taken to the General Hospital in Share. Details are unclear, but the chaos made it difficult to gather full information.
How do you plan to cope with your family after losing everything?
I am helpless. I had a thriving business and a home in Agunjin, but I left with nothing, including my car, and now I am caring for five children and two grandchildren. I rely solely on God’s help and am calling on the government and Nigerians for aid.
How has this tragedy affected you personally?
I feel stripped bare—my investments, property, and husband are gone. I almost took my own life. I am overwhelmed and in despair.
What is your appeal to the government?
I urge both the Kwara State and Federal Governments to intervene urgently. Many districts are deserted, and the people are suffering. We need decisive action to prevent Oke-Ode and surrounding areas from being wiped out.
